Porfimer Intravenous and Ziac

• Generic Name: porfimer
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Photofrin

Porfimer belongs to the group of medicines known as antineoplastics. It is used, together with a special laser light, to treat cancer of the esophagus (the part of the digestive tract that carries food to the stomach) and to treat a form of lung cancer. Porfimer may also treat changes in the esophagus that might lead to cancer, such as a condition called Barrett's esophagus.

Porfimer is to be given only by or under the direct supervision of a doctor.

Once a medicine has been approved for marketing for a certain use, experience may show that it is also useful for other medical problems. Although these uses are not included in product labeling, porfimer is used in certain patients with the following medical conditions:

• Cancer of the biliary tract (cholangiocarcinoma), unresectable, after double stenting.

• Generic Name: bisoprolol / hydrochlorothiazide
• Dosage Forms: tablet, film coated
• Other Brand Names: Ziac

Ziac contains a combination of hydrochlorothiazide and bisoprolol. Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic (water pill) that helps prevent your body from absorbing too much salt, which can cause fluid retention.

Bisoprolol is a beta-blocker. Beta-blockers affect the heart and circulation (blood flow through arteries and veins).

Ziac is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).

Ziac may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.